At the Life Care Center of Littleton, Wednesday nights are a big deal.

After years of navigating life, surviving hardships, and raising families the residents there look forward to relaxing at their weekly bingo game.

The prizes are only part of the attraction; the bingo caller is also a draw.

"She doesn't just call bingo, she's a friend," said Erin Cook, executive director at the Life Care Center of Littleton.

"She truly brightens our Wednesday evenings," said Gayle Smith, whose mom is a resident of the center.

They're talking about volunteer Mary Carr.

Mary teaches political science at Arapahoe Community College.

As Mary was driving home about nine years ago she decided to stop by the Life Care Center.

She asked how she might help the residents, and she has been volunteering ever since.

Mary said, "My grandmother was a great bingo player. This is almost like doing something for her. I get more out of it than they (the residents)do."

Mary has built special relationships with each person at the assisted living center.

Smith said, "Mary just made us feel at home."

Vivian, a resident at the center said, "Mary is a wonderful woman."